#236 ‘Leading with Clarity, communicating for Impact', Sarah Ramantanis CEO of Young Australians in International Affairs

In a recent interview with Mark Longbottom, Sarah Ramantanis shared her experiences as CEO of Young Australians in International Affairs, a voluntary organisation. She spoke about her journey into leadership and her approach to marketing and communications, which is built on clarity and accessibility.

Sarah stepped into the role of CEO after working in various marketing and communications positions. She highlights the importance of understanding different audiences and engaging them effectively. Her leadership style prioritises simplicity and efficiency, ensuring information is clear and accessible to everyone.

She offers practical advice for nonprofit leaders looking to improve communication. She stresses the need for clear messaging, both internally and externally. Strategic planning is also key. She recommends developing a three-year strategic plan with input from across the organisation so that everyone understands their role and contributes to the mission.

Consistent and relevant communication matters more than frequency. Nonprofits should focus on the platforms that best serve their audience. For example, Sarah's organisation decided to deactivate its Facebook page when it no longer met their needs.

She also values honesty about challenges. Sharing both successes and setbacks helps build trust and authenticity. Strong relationships with other organisations and stakeholders can strengthen a nonprofit’s work and broaden its impact.

Being open to learning and adapting is another priority for Sarah. She sees value in diverse experiences and perspectives. To maintain balance and motivation, she suggests listening to your body, acknowledging achievements, and expressing gratitude. Taking care of yourself helps maintain energy and focus.

She also emphasises the importance of being punctual and present in meetings. Showing up on time and engaging fully demonstrates respect and commitment. Consistency in these habits builds trust and a strong work ethic.

Sarah Ramantanis’ approach to leadership and communication is based on clarity, authenticity, and strategic thinking. Her insights offer practical guidance for anyone in the nonprofit sector looking to strengthen their organisation’s impact.